There’s something timeless about lilacs. Their gentle fragrance and vibrant blooms turn any garden into a springtime paradise. But to keep these flowers thriving, you’ll need a bit of know-how.

If you’re planning to plant them for the first time or already have a garden full of lilac shrubs, check how to care for, plant, and perfect your lilac blooms so that they flourish year after year and be the envy of your neighborhood!

Pick the Perfect Spot

Lilacs love the sun. These sun-soaking beauties need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day to bloom to their fullest. When deciding where to plant your lilac bush, think about a spot in your yard that offers full sun, with some room to grow. Lilacs can get quite large (some varieties reach 10-12 feet tall!), so make sure they have space to spread out. Don’t plant them too close to walls or fences where airflow might be limited.

Soil Prep 101

Lilacs aren’t overly picky when it comes to soil, but they do prefer well-draining ground. If your soil tends to stay waterlogged, you might want to mix in some organic matter or sand to help with drainage. When planting, dig a hole about twice as wide and just as deep as the lilac’s root ball. Lilacs enjoy slightly alkaline soil, so if you find your soil is more acidic, a little garden lime can help​.

Watering Wisely

Although lilacs are quite hardy, especially once established, they do need some TLC when it comes to watering. When first planted, water your lilac bushes deeply and regularly to help them establish strong roots. Once they’re settled in, you can reduce watering to about once a week. If your lilacs are in a particularly hot or dry climate, they may need a bit more hydration. Just be careful not to overwater, as soggy roots can lead to disease.

Pruning for Perfection

Want your lilac bush to keep blooming for years to come? Pruning is key. Right after the blooming season (typically in late spring), remove any spent flowers and trim the bush back to maintain its shape. Older lilac bushes might start producing fewer blooms over time, but a rejuvenation pruning - cutting the older stems down to the base - can encourage new growth and more flowers.

Pests and Problems

Lilacs are generally pretty low maintenance, but they’re not invincible. Keep an eye out for common pests like lilac borers or powdery mildew. If you spot powdery mildew (those white spots on the leaves), make sure your lilacs are getting enough airflow and sunlight. For pests, pruning and removing affected areas can help prevent the spread, and natural pesticides can do the trick.

With the right care and a sunny spot, your lilac bushes will reward you with gorgeous, fragrant blooms for years. Now that you know the secrets to growing healthy lilacs, why not give your garden a fragrant upgrade? Grab a new lilac variety and let those blossoms brighten your spring!